Washington Medical Coverage: Other Programs
Basic Health
Who is eligible?
This coverage is for Washington state residents with income under 200% FPL who do not get Medicare. There is no citizenship requirement. As of spring 2006, there is no waiting list but the program is close to capacity.
What does the program cover?
- People must pay premiums that are subsidized based upon income. In addition, co-payments are required for some services. There is also an annual deductible.
- Enrollment is limited, and there may be a waiting list.
- BH covers basic medical services, including limited mental health but not most therapy, rehabilitation, and no dental or vision
- There is a 9-month pre-existing condition waiting period in the BH
For more information, call 1-800-826-2444 or visit the BH website.
Hospital Charity Care
Who is eligible?
Washington law requires hospitals to have a Charity Care Program. Under the program, hospitals must offer people with incomes under 100% FPL free care. People between 100% and 200% FPL must be offered some reduction on hospital charges. Hospitals have the option of offering Charity Care to people with incomes above 200% FPL and some have adopted policies exceeding this limit. Charity Care covered expenses can be considered incurred expenses towards meeting a spend down. If you are working with an individual who is getting bills from a hospital, you can write a letter to the Hospital asking that the person be considered for the Charity Care program. More information on Charity Care is at “Charity Care’: Medical Coverage for Hospital-Based Medical Services.”